Die Cold

Take a main character who is tormented by guilt, unsure of his own self worth add a snow storm, a group of ruthless terrorists, a slice of non stop action an unexpected turn of events and what do you have? You have an book that grabs your attention from the get go.
Jake Boulder has chosen the life of a bartender at a first class ski resort as a way of leaving his demons behind, because after all what could possibly go wrong there ? Unfortunately for Jake he's in the wrong resort at the wrong time as a group of terrorists round every one up on New Years Eve. As the guests are forced into the managers office over the course of time its clear to Jake and his colleague Sharon all is not going to end well. The terrorist group don't cover their faces a sure sign they have no intention of there being anyone left alive to tell the tale of what really happened. Cut off from civilisation by location and no way of communicating with the outside world its left to Jake to make a move and do what he can to save them all.
A distraction created by Jake and Sharon allows him to disappear into the depths of the lodge to try and find a solution to their predicament. Jake finds himself taking on not only the cruel unrelenting weather but his own internal demons as he tracks down the terrorists one by one.
As unrelenting as the weather this novel gives the readers a fast paced thrilling journey alongside Jake in his quest for justice. As the story speeds towards its finale it delivers a " wow I did not see that coming plot twist " that leaves you reeling with amazement. Graham Smith delivers yet another masterpiece of thrills, spills and heart stopping entertainment.

This is the fourth Jake Boulder novel, although my first introduction to him. Jake has been through some pretty traumatic events and is carrying a lot of guilt around with him. He has a talent for getting involved in the sort of situations he really shouldn't and has learnt a fair few survival and fighting skills along the way. Trying to stay out of trouble he has taken a bartender job at the prestigious Ridge-Top ski resort in Vermont, a destination for only the very rich. However trouble seems to find Jake, and within a few weeks the hotel has been invaded by armed terrorists who hold all the guests and staff as hostages. They make it absolutely clear how vicious and determined they are, particularly as their lack of disguise tells Jake that they plan to leave no witnesses. Still unclear as to their goal, Jake seizes a chance to escape from their clutches, and raises the alarm whilst trying to pick off the baddies one by one. One untrained civilian versus at least a dozen ex-military gunmen would appear to be a very unfair fight, even when he can call on ex-army hostage Sharon to assist him, but along with his wits and instincts Jake does seem to have far more than his share of good fortune! The book is well written and is a real page turner which keeps the reader glued to it till the end with a twist they might not see coming. Very enjoyable reading.